Standard year 4021.25 - Rogue Star Beta-Epsilon 3X has now been in deep space for .79 cycles near the Hades-Prime Warp Rift. After the class D star suddenly appeared complete with orbiting planets, a powerful alien signal sent a burst of bizarre messages briefly from an unknown location. Various factions in the area (already prepared for such anomalies) secretly dispatched long range investigation fleets capable of hunting in a mix of hostile planets. Large "explorer" class mother ships anchored each force as they sped towards the star. These big ships relied on speed and stealth as they were not really equipped for major combat (most weapon systems were replaced by massive propulsion engines, supplies and ground unit production systems). The fleets arrived at the same time to engage in cat and mouse maneuvers as they hunt for the source of the mysterious signal in the rouge star system.

The alien signal meant many things to the many factions.

The Tau, an ever inquisitive race, would come to seek out and learn unknown alien technologies and destroy other who wished the same.

The Eldar would come to investigate the signal's mysterious similarities to their own communications. Could it have been sent from the lost Exodite Craftworlds?

The Orks would come for a fight. Such a bizarre signal surely meant new enemies to pulverize. Waaaaagh!

The Space Marines would have no visions of grandeur or material gain. Dispatched by the Inquisition, their mission was simple. Find the Xeno and crush it utterly.